GALA ND/SMC, the LGBT alumni group for the University of Notre Dame and Saint Mary’s College, held the Third Annual NYC LGBT Student Scholarship Benefit on Sunday September 24, 2017. The benefit took place once again at Phil Donahue ’57 and his wife Marlo Thomas’ beautiful apartment overlooking Central Park.

The money raised at the event went directly to theLGBT Student Scholarship Fundwhich was created in the spring of 2015 to assist qualified LGBT undergraduate students of Saint Mary’s and Notre Dame. The ultimate goal is to create an endowment of $250,000 ensuring the continuity of the scholarships for years to come.

The guest speaker at the benefit was Baylea Williams ’18. Baylea has been an officer for the past several years inPrismND, the Notre Dame LGBTQ student group. She is currently serving as the group’s President. Baylea talked about the progress that has been made on campus and the value of a strong connection between the LGBT student and alumni communities.

Through the generosity of the alums and friends who attended, over $30,000 was raised bringing the total over the $100,000 milestone!!